UPM has formed separate partnerships with Ingredion, Paramelt and Siegwerk to develop paper-based packaging solutions for food and secondary packaging applications.
In the first initiative, UPM is working with global ingredient supplier Ingredion and functional coatings manufacturer Paramelt to examine how barrier systems derived from plant-based starch can facilitate the production of recyclable food packaging made from paper.
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The businesses are combining technical capabilities from across the supply chain to evaluate structural performance.
The trials assess structural combinations built on two base grades: UPM Solide Lucent 78gsm and UPM Asendo 65gsm.
Ingredion is supplying the starch-based barrier technology, focusing on its grease-resistance potential.
Paramelt contributes bio-based heat-seal and barrier coatings, allowing the participants to evaluate how these distinct systems perform together within paper structures.
UPM Specialty Materials Americas packaging papers sales director Sarah Dembroski commented: “This collaboration with Ingredion and Paramelt demonstrates how complementary technologies can help broaden the possibilities of paper-based packaging for food applications in the Americas and globally.”
In a separate development, UPM Specialty Materials has collaborated with ink and coating specialist Siegwerk and equipment manufacturer Uteco to produce a paper-based option for secondary packaging.
The resulting format pairs UPM barrier base paper with Siegwerk’s CIRKIT BAR SEAL coating, applied via Uteco’s high-definition flexographic technology.
The combination yields grease and moisture resistance alongside heat-sealing capabilities and can be processed through conventional paper recycling streams in accordance with CEPI/4evergreen v2.
Aimed at brand owners, converters and machine builders, the system serves as a functional route into paper packaging.
UPM Specialty Materials sales director Marco Tramontano said: “As packaging legislation, such as EU PPWR, evolves globally, brand owners need practical ways to reduce plastic without compromising performance. Together with Uteco and Siegwerk, we have shown that paper content can be increased to up to 90% in such packaging, while maintaining the performance required for demanding applications.”
